What is better than Wi-Fi access? Well, free Wi-Fi access, of course! But can Wi-Fi be really free? Let me state this from the very beginning: it may be illegal to use somebody else’s wireless connection. Of course, there are also people who give everyone full access to their Internet connection, and hopefully you will only use networks that are 100% open to outsiders.

So what can you expect when you get access to a free Wi-Fi network? Access will be similar with what you are used to when you utilize your own Internet connection. Still, there may be some limitations you are not aware of, such as not being able to use certain services or access certain websites. Nevertheless, you should be able to browse the web and use most of your favorite social networking sites.

But where should you look for Wi-Fi hotspots that are open to anyone? Always start with the locations where general public is welcome. I’m thinking about malls, sports centers, supermarkets, convention centers, universities and so on. Often times, even most restaurants and coffee shops will provide free Internet access to their customers, and this also extends to people that are sitting outside their buildings.

Of course, if sitting near a restaurant in the rain isn’t your favorite occupation, you should go to a local library. It’s the perfect place to surf the web, because it is a quiet space and – let’s admit it – very few people visit libraries these days. McDonald’s is also offering free Internet access to its customers, and since the fast food provider is present over 100 countries all over the world, it shouldn’t be too hard to locate a McDonald’s even while you are traveling to a foreign country.

Everything starts with having the right application that is able to locate a strong Wi-Fi hotspot. Fortunately, there are lots of great apps that can be installed on your phone, and then provide a huge database of Internet ready hotspots. Notable apps include easy Wi-Fi Radar and Free WiFi Spot.

When you find a hotspot, make sure that it wasn’t set up by evil people, with the goal of stealing your passwords, credit card info, and so on. Only connect to networks that look legitimate, belonging to public institutions or businesses.

If you plan to use Internet access for more than browsing the web, it is a wise move to make use of a VPN connection. Virtual private networks create a tunnel that links you to the target website, minimizing risks. I wouldn’t make use of my credit card even while utilizing a VPN, so try to avoid making purchases or paying invoices while you are using a free hotspot.

But what happens if you aren’t traveling, and yet, for some reason, you want to connect to a free Wi-Fi network that’s around your house? You will need a high gain antenna that is placed as close to the window as possible. You will also need a long UFL to RP-SMA cable to connect the antenna to your router, of course.

Once again, make sure that the network owner allows anyone to connect to his or her hotspots freely. It is illegal to connect to someone’s home network without asking permission, at least in some of the US states. Don’t simply rely on the fact that the router owner has created an open network, because they may have done that without knowing about it.

There has been a lot of progress in the IT industry lately, and we are seeing more and more devices that can have the power to either make our lives easier, or simply to entertain us. These days there is a gadget that fulfils almost any need that we may have! Here is a list with the most exciting devices that are supposed to put a smile on our faces in 2016.

Ehang 184 is a new drone created by the Ehang company. So what is so special about this drone, you ask? Well, for starters, it can carry a human. Yes, you read that right! Soon we will have a drone that will be able to carry us around for over 20 minutes before needing a recharge. If you have ever wanted to own a chopper, but couldn’t afford to purchase one, it’s the time to start saving money for this drone, which is known to be much less expensive, and yet able to travel at speeds that exceed 50 miles/hour. And if you lack storage space, you will be pleased to hear that the drone has foldable arms and gull-wing doors.

Smart cars are a reality. New models are launched each year, and we are seeing remarkable progress with each new smart car generation. But what about the rest of us, who own older cars, which don’t incorporate modern technologies? If this question has been bothering you for some time, you will be glad to hear that Garmin, the company known mostly for its GPS systems, has invented Varia Vision. This is a VR accessory that can be mounted on your sunglasses, and then displays useful information about your driving habits and potential dangers. Of course, Varia Vision can also provide directions, helping you reach the destination as quickly as possible. Since the device is mounted on sunglasses, it can also be used by anyone traveling by foot, by bike or any other transportation means.

Did you know that over 25% of the people in the world suffer from insomnia? If you are one of those people, you will be glad to find out that Sleep Number, the company that has set the standards when it comes to bed manufacturing, has invented its first IT bed. The bed is fitted with lots of biometric sensors which track your body’s activity and make proper adjustments, helping you get a better, deeper sleep. The sensors monitor your heart rate, your sleeping habits and your breathing patterns. Don’t worry, your partner’s info is tracked as well, so you’ll only need a smart bed for two people.

Many people use the Roomba vacuum cleaner to keep their houses clean. And now, there is some sort of a Roomba for grills! If you are a lazy griller, you will definitely fall in love with the Grillbot, the device that will automatically clean any grill, no matter how dirty it is. Grillbot is already selling for a bit over $100, and has several replaceable metal bristles that help it move around, while cleaning the grill. Just let your grill cool a bit, place the Grillbot on top of it, and then go for your business.